If you’re new to overlanding and feeling overwhelmed by all the rigs, gear, and opinions online, this episode is for you.

I’m breaking down where to actually start with overlanding in 2026 — what matters, what doesn’t, and how to avoid wasting money on things you don’t need yet. Overlanding has changed a lot over the past few years, but the fundamentals are still the same, and you don’t need a fully built rig to get out there and have a great time.

I’ll talk about:

* Choosing (or using) the right vehicle — even if it’s completely stock

* Gear that’s worth buying early vs what can wait

* Common beginner mistakes I see all the time

Whether you’re planning your first overnight trip, slowly building a rig, or just trying to figure out if overlanding is even for you, this episode is meant to give you a clear, realistic starting point.

A huge thanks to my partners:

Top Oak (amazing roof top tents and awnings for budget prices): https://topoakoverland.com/?sscid=51k9_mt1ba&

Nitto (my Terra Grappler G3 tires are great for midwestern winters, wet weather, and all terrain use): https://www.nittotire.com/light-truck-tires/terra-grappler-g3-all-terrain-light-truck-tire/

Z1 Off Road (pretty much the spot for all things Nissan): https://www.z1offroad.com

All Dogs Offroad (amazing Nissan specific suspension options which I run on my truck): https://www.alldogsoffroad.com

ICECO Fridges (the best fridges for the money, hands down-Use code ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING for 12% off your order): https://icecofreezer.com/ALLTHINGSOVERLANDING

Moon Fab Awning (super flexible, non-permanently mounted awnings for all kinds of applications. This link will take you to more info on how I have it set up on my 3rd gen Frontier): https://moonfab.com/pages/experts/jason-fletcher

Click here to join the Patreon community for exclusive content and access to the Discord channel: https://www.patreon.com/allthingsoverlanding

Click here to get a patches or stickers: https://allthingsoverlanding.com/shop/

For a full list of my gear, check out this page for quick reference links: https://allthingsoverlanding.com/gear/

Looking for budget light bars, rock lights, and LED strips for your rig? Check out Nilight and use code ATO for 5% off! https://bit.ly/3vuhN8F

For more great content and info, you can follow me on Facebook, Instagram, or search for All Things Overlanding on all the major podcast channels!

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Newbie Overlander Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/367203658420467

New to Overlanding? Here's Where to Start for 2026!